~ Celebrations at The Broad Face ~
And a wander along the River Thames
A small, intimate wedding at the Abingdon Registry Office was followed by celebrations at The Broad Face Inn, where friends and family gathered from far and wide to share in the couple’s special day.
A wedding in Abingdon would also not be complete without a visit to the famous Abbey Gardens and an evening stroll along the River Thames!
Abingdon, An Oxfordshire Market town brimming with history, traditions and riverside beauty.
The town’s development is closely tied to Abingdon Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in the 7th century. The Abbey became one of England’s wealthiest and most powerful during the Middle Ages. However, its fate changed dramatically in 1538 when King Henry VIII dissolved it during the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
Today, although the Abbey itself is mostly gone, remnants like the Abbey gateway, the Long Gallery, and parts of the ruins remain, offering visitors a glimpse into Abingdon’s medieval past. Another prominent historical landmark is the County Hall, built between 1678 and 1683. This striking Baroque building is a reminder of Abingdon’s days as the administrative centre of Berkshire before it became part of Oxfordshire in 1974.
Abingdon’s status as a market town goes back centuries. In 1556, it was granted a royal charter to hold a weekly market, and this tradition has continued ever since. The Market Place is the heart of the town, where local farmers, artisans, and traders come to sell fresh produce, crafts, and goods. Regular farmers’ markets and craft fairs occur, drawing people from the town and surrounding villages.
The River Thames is integral to Abingdon’s charm, offering picturesque views and recreational opportunities. The town’s riverside is ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and boat trips. The Thames Path, a long-distance walking trail that follows the river, passes through Abingdon, making it a popular stop for walkers and cyclists. For a scenic day out, visitors can enjoy a boat trip on the Thames, hire a kayak, or simply sit by the river and watch the rowers glide by. The Abingdon Lock, one of the oldest along the Thames, adds to the picturesque quality of the town, with its historic weirs and peaceful waters.
Abingdon is also home to several green spaces, like Abbey Gardens, a beautiful park with well-kept flower beds, a charming herb garden, and scenic walks around the remains of the old Abbey. Nearby, Rye Farm Meadow and Andersey Island are perfect for wildlife spotting and riverside picnicking, offering a tranquil escape just a short walk from the town centre.